This week, Pastor David Hawkins walks us through a series of verses that remind us of what Jesus did for us. Jesus' resurrection is not just about where we go when we die-- it ought to change how we live right now.
Today's discussion will focus on the Apostle Paul's claims of Christ and the subsequent real-life applications. As is said in the book of James 1:22, "But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves."
"‘Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your
sting?’ The sting of death is sin… But thanks be to God! He
gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
1 Corinthians 15:55-57The Apostle Paul
Connect
Group welcome and check in with everyone since you last met.
Opening questions:
* How do you define Victory?
* On a scale of 1-10, (1 being, in the dumps, 10 being a joyful overcomer, victoriously alive!) Where do you find yourself?
* Why did you choose that number? (this question will be important at the end)
Discuss
Lessons in Victory
Vibe #1 Victory was secured at the Cross, not in our performance.
Read aloud together
Colossians 2:13-15.
* Can someone summarize this verse in their own words?
* What role did you play in this forgiveness and redemption? (obvious question, sorry but it bears repeating)
* List the words that refer to God's role. Note that the Greek word used for gives actually translates as "keeps on giving." How does this help you better understand this verse?
Vibe #2
Victory Changes How we Face Battles.
*Read aloud
Romans 8:55 & 37, emphasizing the words "in all things"
* As you take this verse to heart, what words can you substitute for "trouble, hardship, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger or sword in your own life?
Have people in your group look up and read.
2 Cor 4:9-9, 2 Chron. 20:17. and
Philippians 1:6. How do these verses also support the point Paul is trying to make?
Vibe #3
Victory is for More that You-- It's for Others Through You!
* Read aloud
John 16:33 Jesus was so honest in sharing these words with us. What does this mean in your own life?
* Read Rev. 12:11 and 2 Cor. 4:7-9 and discuss how these verses impact and coincide with
John 16:33
Action Steps
Our goal as Christ-followrs is to not just know the Word but to practice it, to live our lives differently in light of these Biblical truths.
SO, the more we plant the Word of God in our brains, the more it becomes a part of who we are and how we live. So, if your group is open to it, pick a verse or two to memorize and share when you gather together again.
Pray
Lord Jesus, words can't describe how grateful we are for Your sacrifice. Thank You for enduring the Cross all the way to the Resurrection. You have given us new life. We confess how we often struggle, sitting in our own circumstances, rather than looking to You for what You already have done, are doing, and will continue to do.
Jesus, help us to remember that Your victory is lavished on us- unmerited and freely given. Show us how to be Your vessels of clay with this great treasure inside. Jesus, use our broken pots to reflect Your light and Your victory- today and every day to come.
in Your name we pray,
Amen